Published: Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at 12:01 PM.

Though the severe storm pattern that affected most of North Carolina yesterday cleared the state this morning, another round of severe weather is expected to enter North Carolina later today, bringing the potential for thunderstorms, damaging straight-line winds, heavy rain, large hail and possible isolated tornadoes. Governor Pat McCrory and Department of Public Safety Secretary Frank L. Perry are urging people to use caution as most of the state remains at an elevated risk for severe weather until Thursday morning.

“Over the past 24 hours these severe storms have proven their ability to impact every area of our state with many counties experiencing flash flooding, wind and tornado damage,”said Governor McCrory. “It is important for folks to stay tuned to local weather reports because another round is expected to hit later today and safety should be everyone’s top priority.”

Forecasters predict the oncoming storm system will bring one to three inches of rain to the state, with the highest amounts of rain in Central and Eastern North Carolina. Seventy counties remain under a flash flood watch due to heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours. Real-time traffic, flood, weather and shelter information is available in the ReadyNC mobile app and online at www.ReadyNC.org.

“This event is still unfolding so I encourage everyone to stay alert and above all, stay safe,” Department of Public Safety Secretary Frank L. Perry. “We will continue to monitor the situation and provide resources upon request. Law enforcement and emergency services personnel have been activated and all are on standby to respond and assist where needed.”

Multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms impacted the entire state yesterday. Greene, Wilson, Pitt and Cumberland counties reported significant flooding with many roads impassable due to standing water. Nine unconfirmed tornado touchdowns have been reported to the National Weather Service. No storm-related deaths have been reported.

Rising water levels make travel conditions extremely dangerous. Residents should stay tuned to local weather reports to get the most up-to-date information, avoid flood waters and move to higher ground if necessary. Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard. Whether you are driving or walking, if you come to a flooded road, Turn Around, Don't Drown. Depth and conditions of the water can be deceiving; even a few inches of water can be strong enough to knock you off your feet or sweep a car away. If you come upon a flooded area, turn around and make your way to higher ground.

Though the severe storm pattern that affected most of North Carolina yesterday cleared the state this morning, another round of severe weather is expected to enter North Carolina later today, bringing the potential for thunderstorms, damaging straight-line winds, heavy rain, large hail and possible isolated tornadoes. Governor Pat McCrory and Department of Public Safety Secretary Frank L. Perry are urging people to use caution as most of the state remains at an elevated risk for severe weather until Thursday morning.

“Over the past 24 hours these severe storms have proven their ability to impact every area of our state with many counties experiencing flash flooding, wind and tornado damage,”said Governor McCrory. “It is important for folks to stay tuned to local weather reports because another round is expected to hit later today and safety should be everyone’s top priority.”

Forecasters predict the oncoming storm system will bring one to three inches of rain to the state, with the highest amounts of rain in Central and Eastern North Carolina. Seventy counties remain under a flash flood watch due to heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours. Real-time traffic, flood, weather and shelter information is available in the ReadyNC mobile app and online at www.ReadyNC.org.

“This event is still unfolding so I encourage everyone to stay alert and above all, stay safe,” Department of Public Safety Secretary Frank L. Perry. “We will continue to monitor the situation and provide resources upon request. Law enforcement and emergency services personnel have been activated and all are on standby to respond and assist where needed.”

Multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms impacted the entire state yesterday. Greene, Wilson, Pitt and Cumberland counties reported significant flooding with many roads impassable due to standing water. Nine unconfirmed tornado touchdowns have been reported to the National Weather Service. No storm-related deaths have been reported.

Rising water levels make travel conditions extremely dangerous. Residents should stay tuned to local weather reports to get the most up-to-date information, avoid flood waters and move to higher ground if necessary. Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard. Whether you are driving or walking, if you come to a flooded road, Turn Around, Don't Drown. Depth and conditions of the water can be deceiving; even a few inches of water can be strong enough to knock you off your feet or sweep a car away. If you come upon a flooded area, turn around and make your way to higher ground.

Emergency officials recommend the following safety tips:

Monitor a NOAA Weather Radio, or local news station for vital weather-related information.

Register with a local television or radio station to receive weather alerts, on your cell phone or landline, specific to your area.

Keep cell phones charged in the event of power outages.

If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding.

Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Turn Around, Don't Drown!

Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. If your vehicle is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.

Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Know where the nearest safe room is, such as a basement or interior room and away from windows, and go there immediately if you hear or see a tornado.

If tornadoes threaten and you are in your car, pull over and get to a low-lying area such as a ditch. Do not stop under an overpass or a bridge. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your vehicle.

If you are outdoors, and there is no shelter available, take cover in a low-lying flat area and watch out for flying debris.

Following a storm, wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves and gloves when walking on or near debris, and be aware of exposed nails and broken glass.

Be aware of damaged power or gas lines and electrical systems that may cause fires, electrocution or explosions.

Know the terms: WATCH means a tornado is possible. WARNING means a tornado has been spotted; take shelter immediately.